Certainly, at a price tag of now over $10 billion, we should take our time to be sure that we don't lose it all, on launch. [The latest, from ArsTechnica -- on it all.]
But it has been clear for nearly a year now that the South American launch site (managed by Northrop) would require vaccinations, before the US launch team could drop in, around a month before Halloween, for final prep and shake-downs.
It appears the needed vaccines are in short supply in and around the launch locale, for in-country workers. Thus the delay. In my opinion, I'd lay that issue at the feet of the "government contractor" -- and its rule no. 1: once the NASA money spigot is flowing. . . do not let it be turned off. Not ever. Ugh.
So this delay is far less about rocket safety, and far more about poor pandemic logistics foresight. But we will see it launch, if not near Christmas -- then in the New Year 2022. Onward, smiling. . . .
नमस्ते
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